One of my favorite things about modern design is that it gives equal consideration to aesthetics and utility. Even the simplest modern furniture often has some kind of dual functionality, or at least some subtle quirk or changeable feature designed to make the piece more usable. But the extra utility isn’t just added on, it’s integrated into the design from the ground up, which means i

If you don’t have much experience with interior design, it can be more than a little intimidating to try to get started. No matter how much time you’ve spent looking at other houses, magazine spreads, or pictures online, if you don’t know how to describe them, you’re going to have trouble articulating what it is you do and don’t like. This beginner’s guide is de

Mid century modern furniture is usually paired either with a very retro style or an incredibly modern one; by and large, there isn’t much middle ground between dark-wood-and-gem-tones and stark-lines-and-cool-colors. But lately mid century modern style chairs have found their way into a distinctly different, Nordic-inspired decor: Scandinavian modern design. This style is all about simple, s

Modern design has always favored wide, open spaces, and it’s a preference that’s had a huge impact on contemporary home design. Homeowners are knocking down walls and barriers to create huge, sun-soaked great rooms and integrated spaces. For those that love these big spaces, but prefer a more antique style to the prim and polish of modern decor, reclaimed warehouses, farm structures, a

I’m in the unique position of having a compact, urban lifestyle but taste that tends more toward the antique. Now, in Europe and in some older parts of east coast cities, mixing the two is far from unheard of. In fact, historical apartment buildings in Paris are defined as much by their interior decor as their architecture. But if you live in a more modern building, it can be hard to pull of

If you’re looking for a bold, colorful statement piece for your modern living space, you’ve come to the right place. I’m always on the lookout for unique, unusual new takes on modern furniture, and regular readers of the blog will know that some of my absolute favorite modern furniture picks are ones that riff on antique designs. PolArt, a specialty furniture designer from Mexico

Chandeliers are typically associated with antique styles and old world design. You know the kind – big, imposing, crystal-laden chandeliers made to dominate large parlors or grand staircases and are more about look than lighting. But if your living space is a little more modern, never fear. Modern chandeliers are increasingly available, and are simpler, sleeker, and more refined than their c

Often when you think of accent tables, you’re thinking ornate, vintage-inspired art pieces designed to help catch the eye in a larger room. But not all home decor calls for elaborate pieces, and not all pieces have to be elaborate to be eye catching. Contemporary accent tables are stunning in their simplicity, and add both functionality and design to a modern or contemporary living room. The

One of the biggest problems with modern bathroom vanities – and, really, modern bathroom design as a whole – is that the minimal design and industrial palette tend to err a little on the side of stark, cold, and even sterile. That said, if you give your bathroom design a creative eye, it’s more than possible to create a modern decor that’s warm and inviting rather than a li